Investors gain benefits from small-scale hydropower plants in terms of revenues, while the state produces electricity on its own territory. Prior to their construction, all potential damages should be considered, that is, the adverse effects which might affect biodiversity, especially life of citizens, noted Prof. Dr. Mihailo Burić, master of science in geology, in an interview with Pobjeda daily.
He emphasized that when making a final decision on sustainability of small hydroelectric power plants, one should not have in mind only the electric field strength and amount of energy. “The criterion for small hydropower plants in comparison with the installed electric field strength does not represent the main criterion for assessing impacts.”
According to him, this criterion varies from country to country. “In Montenegro, small-scale hydropower plants are those with a capacity of up to 10 MW. However, this does not reflect the exact impact they have on nature and people. They are attractive from the economic aspect, especially due to their beneficial price.”
“The most important thing is to have water available for all users. In other words, if there’s enough water for everyone, the appropriate technical solution can provide rational use of water and acceptance of small hydropower plants,” emphasized Burić.
One thing is certain: construction of small hydropower plants is a very complex task. Burić said: “Even though they’re small, problems are huge. If they endanger life and activities of citizens, they should not be built. Now is the time to examine costs of electricity from future hydropower plants.”
